The winners of the 2017 Australian Coastal Awards were announced on 5 May at the Australian Coastal Councils Conference, held at Redcliffe in Queensland.
Barry Sammels, Chair of the Australian Coastal Councils Association, said the Awards were established to acknowledge the achievement of individuals and organisations that have made a significant contribution to the Australian coastal environment, settlements and sustainability.
“The Awards are intended to raise community awareness of the importance of the coastal zone and to encourage coastal planning and management practitioners to strive for excellence,” he said.
Barry Sammels said the standard of nominations for the 2017 Australian Coastal Awards was very high. Winners of the awards were:
• Clarence City Council (Tasmania) which won the 2017 Australian Coastal Award for Annual Achievement;
• The Northern Agricultural Catchments Council (WA), which won the 2017 Australian Coastal Award for Community Engagement;
• Moreton Bay Regional Council (Queensland) which won the 2017 Australian Coastal Award for Planning and Management; and
• The National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility, which won the 2017 Australian Coastal Award for Coastal Research.
“Australia has one of the longest coastlines in the world – more than 36,000kms – but it faces many challenges,” he said. “These include the impact of more frequent extreme weather events, widespread coastal erosion, the risks associated with a changing climate and loss of coastal environment due to rapid urbanisation.
“Fortunately, as a nation we have a large number of dedicated individuals and organisations who are committed to safeguarding the coast for future generations. The Australian Coastal Awards are intended to acknowledge their work, and to inspire others.”
Full list – 2017 Australian Coastal Awards
Award for Annual Achievement
Clarence City Council (TAS) for its adaptation pathway – sharing lessons learnt.
Award for Community Engagement
Northern Agricultural Catchments Council (WA) for its coastal and marine program.
Award for Planning and Management
Moreton Bay Regional Council (QLD) for its program using remotely piloted aircraft for seawall condition assessment.
Award for Research
National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility development of the CoastAdapt web-based tool for managing climate risks.
Highly Commended – Community Engagement
Alexandrina Council (SA): Goolwa Beach Car Park & Surrounds Masterplan
Highly Commended – Climate Adaptation
Whitsunday Regional Council (QLD): Climate Change Adaptation Program
Pictured above:
Association Chair Barry Sammels (left) presents the 2017 Australian Coastal Award for Annual Achievement to Alderman Sharyn von Bertouch, NRM Planner Phil Watson and Alderman Kay McFarlane of Clarence City Council (TAS)